After his resurrection, and just prior to his ascension back to heaven, Jesus gathered his disciples together and gave them what is commonly referred to as the “Great Commission.”  Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20

This command was the culmination of the past 3 years that Jesus spent with his disciples. In order to bring the gospel to all nations, Jesus invested his life into a relatively small number of men and women who then turn around and pass on their transformed life to others. This is what Paul had mind when he said, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 11:1

Check out this video from one our disciple-makers.

Deciding who to ask to be a part of a disciple-making relationship can be challenging. Ultimately, you really never know how the relationship will work until you actually start doing it. But there are a few qualities that you should look for before you offer to disciple someone. Here’s what the Apostle Paul, a master disciple-maker wrote to his protégé Timothy. “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” – 2 Timothy 2:2 

So Paul recognizes what who we are entrusting our teaching to matters. To put it bluntly, it may not be worth attempting to disciple someone who has shown themselves to be unreliable. That is something that every disciple maker needs to discern for themselves.

But if you’re looking for other possible qualities, consider the acronym F.A.I.T.H. (Faithful, Available, Initiative, Teachable, Heart). Does this person keep their commitments? Does this person have the time or is willing to make the necessary time for this kind of relationship? Are they motivated? Are they open to instruction and feedback? Do they have a heart and hunger for God?  If you see these qualities in someone, then that should be a good indicator they are ready to be discipled. Obviously, we all have room to grow in these areas, so try to not set the bar too high.

A great recommendation is to establish at the beginning a trial period (3-4 meetings) to see how it goes. If it’s going well for the both of you, great! If not, then you have given each other an out.

Check out this video from one of our disciple-makers.

We know everyone is “busy” these days. But making a consistent time to meet on a regular basis is critical for any disciple-making relationship. It’s imperative as a disciple-maker that you model consistency, punctuality and preparedness as it communicates “this time with you is important to me.” Depending on schedules, we recommend that you meet at least every other week (twice a month) for at least an hour each time. It’s best if you can find a regular day and time to stay consistent. We also recommend meeting just to “hang out and have fun” in addition to your regular meetings. It’s important to establish the relationship and to build trust and intimacy which can also happen during these more informal times together.

Check out this video from one of our disciple-makers!